Raytheon tapped by ONR to develop hybrid power generator technology for Marine Corps

Program aims to reduce fuel consumption by at least 40 percent

Hybrid technology leverages solar energy to offset fuel consumption

Decreased fuel consumption saves costs, reduces vulnerabilities

Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) was awarded a contract from the Office of Naval Research to develop next-generation hybrid tactical generator technology for the U.S. Marine Corps. Through the Hybrid Dish/Engine Expeditionary Generator (HyDE-2G) program, ONR aims to save at least 40 percent on fuel costs compared with those of diesel fuel generators typically used to support expeditionary operations today.

Forward deployed warfighters rely on generators to power everything from coffee pots and radios, to radars, computers and more. These generators require fuel, and delivering diesel is an expensive and often dangerous undertaking; convoys offer highly visible targets. The Marines hope to enlist hybrid power generation and solar energy to reduce risk exposure and fuel costs.

"Delivering fuel to remote locations, whether transported over land or through the air, is expensive and puts warfighters at risk," said Joe Biondi, vice president of Advanced Technology for Raytheon's Integrated Defense Systems business. "Through the HyDE-2G program, Raytheon will help the Marines reduce operational costs and manning; minimize logistical vulnerabilities; and, most importantly, safeguard our warfighters."